NAIM HDX-SSD - REFERENCE ISSUE 1 User manual

REFERENCE MANUAL
HDX-SSD-SSD HARD DISK PLAYER
ENGLISH

Contents
Section Page
Contents
1 HDX-SSD Hard Disk Player Introduction 1
1.1 HDX-SSD User Interfaces 1
1.2 HDX-SSD Interface Options 2
2 Getting Started 3
2.1 Internet/Network Connections 3
2.2 Power Supply Upgrade 3
2.3 Audio Connections 3
2.4 Switch On 4
2.5 External Screen Setup 4
2.6 First Use 4
2.7 Software Upgrade 4
2.8 Switching Off 4
2.9 Data Backup 5
3 Getting Connected 6
3.1 HDX-SSD Rear Panel 6
3.2 HDX-SSD Connections 6
3.3 HDX-SSD Connected to XPS Power Supply 7
4 The Front Panel Display Interface 8
4.1 The Home Menu 8
4.2 The Browse Music Menu 9
4.3 The Find Music Menu 10
4.4 The Ripping Monitor Screen 10
4.5 The Current Playlist Screen 10
4.6 Playlists 11
4.7 The Quick Play Menu 12
4.8 The System Setup Menu 12
4.9 Handset Functions 16
5 Playback 17
5.1 Local Playback 17
5.2 NaimNet Network Playback 17
5.3 UPnP™ Network Playback 17
6 Ripping 18
6.1 The Ripping Process 18
6.2 Copyright Issues 18
7 External Storage 19
7.1 USB Storage Devices 19
7.2 Network Shares 19
7.3 Music Stores 19
7.4 Adding a Music Store 20
8 Interface Menu Structure 22
9 Hard Disk Player Terminology 23
10 HDX-SSD Specifications 25
11 User Notes 25
12 Commercial Acknowledgements 26
12.1 DigiFi End-user License Agreement 26
12.2 StreamNet Acknowledgement 26
12.3 Adobe Flash Acknowledgement 26
Note: This manual is issue No. 3 and describes the operation of
HDX-SSD units running software release version 1.5a SP1. HDX-
SSD units running earlier software will not operate fully in the
manner described in this manual. The software running in an
HDX-SSD is displayed in the System Status menu.

1
HDX-SSD Hard Disk Player Introduction
1 HDX-SSD Hard Disk Player Introduction
The Naim HDX-SSD hard disk player will completely change the way you access and
listen to your music collection. While the HDX-SSD may look like a CD player and can
play CDs conventionally, it is intended to operate in a fundamentally different way.
• Rather than reproducing the audio on a CD inserted in its transport, HDX-SSD
reads and stores the CD data on a network connected hard disk drive for replay
at any later time. Network stored files can be either audio files ripped from CD or
compatible audio files created by other means.
• The HDX-SSD operates as a UPnP™ server providing audio files to any UPnP™
compatible playback hardware connected on the same network.
• In addition to its conventional analogue or digital audio outputs, the HDX-SSD can
provide up to six NaimNet/StreamNet network streams for playback in multiple
remote areas.
• When the HDX-SSD first reads the data from a CD, it automatically accesses
an internet music database and downloads the information held for that CD.
The information can include title, tracks, artist, composer, genre and numerous
additional details. This can then be used by the HDX-SSD to select or search
for material and to build custom playlists. The CD cover artwork will also be
downloaded if available and displayed by the user interface.
• The HDX-SSD is able to operate as a conventional CD player. A CD inserted in the
drawer can be played immediately with its audio routed to the analogue and digital
audio outputs.
The mode of control and operation of your HDX-SSD will depend upon the type of system
with which it is integrated. These different “user interfaces” are introduced in Section 1.1
while the touch screen controlled Front Panel Display Interface is described in detail in
Section 4.
If the HDX-SSD is your first experience of a network connected product you may find
it worthwhile to read the glossary in Section 9 before moving on to installation and
operation.
1.1 HDX-SSD User Interfaces
Unlike a conventional item of hi-fi equipment, the HDX-
SSD can be operated in a number of different ways using
a variety of user interfaces. The user interface you use to
control your HDX-SSD will depend on the type of system in
which it is installed and the ancillary equipment available.
The following short paragraphs and table describe each
user interface.
1.1.1 The Front Panel Display Interface
The HDX-SSD is most conveniently operated via its Front
Panel Display Interface using either the front panel touch
screen or the remote handset.
Note: The Front Panel Display Interface can also be
configured to control any StreamNet compliant device
connected to the network.
1.1.2 The External Display Interface
The HDX-SSD can be operated via its External Display
Interface using the supplied remote handset (or a
keyboard and/or mouse), in combination with an
additional external display screen. The screen may be a
monitor or TV with composite video, S-video or VGA input.
The External Display Interface is closely related to the Front
Panel Display Interface and similarly provides access to
HDX-SSD operational and setup features.
1.1.3 The NaimNet/StreamNet Touch Screen Interface
If the HDX-SSD is installed in a NaimNet home network,
HDX-SSD network audio streams can be controlled
from the NaimNet/StreamNet Interface. The NaimNet/
StreamNet Interface can be accessed from a StreamNet
compliant touch screen or a web browser. The interface
can also control any StreamNet compliant device.
Note: The NaimNet/StreamNet Interface is not covered in
this manual.

2
HDX-SSD Hard Disk Player Overview
1.1.4 The Web Browser Interface
If the HDX-SSD is installed in a home network the External
Display and Front Panel Display interfaces can be
duplicated by any Flash enabled web browser
To access the External Display Interface from a web
browser, open the web browser and type the unique
“name” of your HDX-SSD into the browser address field.
The name is the last four characters of the MAC address
(excluding the colon separators) printed on the rear
panel preceded by NSHDX). A typical “name” would be
NSHDX4567.
To access the Front Panel Display interface from a web
browser add the suffix:
/index.html?movie=fp.swf to the HDX-SSD name.
E.g. NSHDX89B5/index.html?movie=fp.swf
Note: Depending on your web browser you may need to
type “http://” immediately before the HDX-SSD name.
1.2 HDX-SSD Interface Options
Interface Control Display Notes
Front Panel Display Touch screen. Front Panel display. Enables control of both HDX-SSD local outputs in
Remote handset. stand-alone installations and network streams in
network connected installations.
External Display Remote handset. TV or monitor with VGA, Controls local outputs only.
Keyboard/mouse. S-video or composite input.
USB/VGA touch screen. USB/VGA touch screen.
Web Browser Flash enabled web browser. Duplicates functionality of Front Panel and
External Display Interfaces. Network connection
required. Controls local outputs only.
Desktop Client Computer running Windows XP, Provides music database management and
Windows Vista or Windows 7. advanced HDX-SSD setup functions. Can also
control local outputs. Network connection
required.
NaimNet/StreamNet StreamNet compliant network touch screen. Controls network streams only.
Does not control local outputs.
Network connection required.
n-Serve iPod/iPhone App iPhone or iPod touch Controls HDX-SSD local output only.
Wireless network connection required.
Note: An internet connection is required for detailed CD data lookup. Without an internet connection, limited information is
available from a locally held database.
1.1.5 The Desktop Client
If the HDX-SSD is installed in a home network that includes
a personal computer running Windows XP, Vista or 7, it can
be operated via the Desktop Client Interface. The Desktop
Client application provides the most comprehensive
operational and search functionality. The Desktop Client is
covered in a separate manual that can be downloaded
from the Naim Audio web site at www.naimaudio.com.
Some setup, file management and maintenance facilities
are only available via the Desktop Client.
1.1.6 iPod/iPhone App
The n-Serve app, available from the iTunes App Store,
enables wireless touch screen control of HDX-SSD from an
iPhone or iPod touch.

3
Installation - Getting Started
2 Getting Started
The HDX-SSD is a CD-ripping hard disk player and server. It incorporates no built-in
storage but requires an external network attached storage disk drive (a NAS drive) to be
connected and configured before it can be used. Configuring a NAS drive is described in
Section 7 of this manual.
HDX-SSD must be connected to a network to stream music around the home, or to take
advantage of many of its user interfaces. It must also be connected to the internet to
retrieve album data and artwork from the internet, It is important that the network is
working when HDX-SSD is connected and switched on.
HDX-SSD should be installed horizontally on a dedicated equipment stand intended for
the purpose. Do not stand HDX-SSD directly on top of another item of equipment. HDX-SSD
should be installed in its final location before connecting cables or switching on.
Locally connected audio amplifiers should not be switched on before HDX-SSD is switched
on. The HDX-SSD power switch is located on the rear panel.
To begin installation first identify the rear panel network, audio output and power input
sockets, and connect the appropriate cables.
2.1 Internet/Network Connections
Unitiserve-SSD requires a connection to network attached
storage in order to operate, and an “always on” internet
connection if its full capabilities are to be realised. It should
be connected to the internet via an ethernet router/
modem with a built-in firewall
The network connection also enables HDX-SSD to
communicate with other network devices, to be used in a
NaimNet/StreamNet network audio system, and provides
access to its alternative user interfaces.
The HDX-SSD is set up when originally shipped not to
require any further network configuration but to connect
to a network automatically (it uses DHCP by default).
However, if your HDX-SSD has been previously used, its
network configuration may have been altered leaving it
unable to connect automatically. Contact your retailer,
installer or Naim Audio directly if this appears to be the
case.
2.1.1 Network Hardware
Wired network connection is strongly recommended for
the most consistent and secure HDX-SSD operation.
Ethernet-over-mains hardware may be used and provides
a simple and convenient method of home network
connection. However, depending on mains wiring factors
specific to each home environment, the presence of
network data on the mains supply may compromise
overall system sound quality. If any sound quality
compromise is found to be unacceptable, dedicated
network cabling should be installed.
2.2 Power Supply Upgrade
The HDX-SSD can be upgraded through the use of an
external Naim XPS or CD555PS external power supply to
power its analogue circuits.
If an external power supply is to be used, the link plug in
the rear panel of the HDX-SSD should be removed and the
power supply connected in its place using an SXPS Burndy
cable. See Diagram 3.3.
THE SXPS BURNDY CABLE ONLY MUST BE USED TO CONNECT
THE XPS OR 555PS POWER SUPPLIES.
Both the HDX-SSD and the external power supply must be
switched off when the link plug is removed and the Burndy
connections are made. Switch on the external power
supply first followed by the HDX-SSD.
2.3 Audio Connections
Connect one or all of the analogue DIN (output 1) or
Phono (output 2) output sockets, or the Digital output
socket, to an appropriate audio system input. If using the
analogue outputs use a Naim Hi-Line interconnect cable
for best results.
Note: The output selector on the rear panel should be
switched to reflect the analogue output connections used.
2.3.1 Signal Ground
Switch the HDX-SSD’s rear panel Signal Ground switch (see
paragraph 3.2.14) to the Chassis position unless the HDX-
SSD is connected in a hi-fi system incorporating another
earthed source component, or mains “hum” is audible
through the loudspeakers. Contact your retailer, distributor
or Naim for advice if necessary.
Note: All Naim CD players are earthed so the Signal
ground switch should be set to floating if one is connected
in the system.
Note: “Connected” in this context means an analogue
audio signal cable that includes an earth connection.

4
Installation - Getting Started
2.4 Switch On
If the HDX-SSD’s network facilities are to be used ensure
that it is connected to a working internet connection
before switching it on and that all the necessary peripheral
equipment is appropriately connected and configured.
Switch on the HDX-SSD using the rear panel power switch.
Note: If the HDX-SSD is to be switched on from shutdown
mode, the power switch must be switched off and on again.
See Section 2.8 for more on shutdown mode.
After approximately one minute’s delay, the user interface
Home menu will appear on the front panel touch screen
(and any connected display). Navigate around the
interface and select options by touching the screen or
using the remote handset navigation (3456), ok, home
and back keys.
Note: It is occasionally possible for the default remote
handset command set to conflict with other remote
controlled equipment in the home. A conflict will be
apparent if the handset appears to control an unintended
device or if another handset appears to control the HDX-
SSD. If a conflict occurs the HDX-SSD handset command set
can be changed. While pointing the handset towards the
HDX-SSD, press and hold both the page down and input
keys while simultaneously pressing the 2 or 3 key to change
the command set. Press the 1 key to return to the default
command set.
2.5 External Screen Setup
If an external display is used, the HDX-SSD external display
setup may need to be modified. Navigate, via the System
menu, to the System Setup menu. Select and save the
desired External Display Theme, External Display Aspect
Ratio, External Display Mode and TV System. Initially disable
the Screen Saver (found on System Setup page 1).
Note: The External Display Mode setting configures the
external display for use with either an external touch
screen or a remote handset. In touch screen mode, four
shortcut buttons are displayed on the right of the screen
that correspond to the home, browse, find and back keys
on the remote handset. The on screen shortcut buttons
can only be accessed from the touch screen so are not
shown in remote control mode.
Note: Once you have become used to the interface and
are familiar with its functions the screen saver can be
re-enabled.
2.6 First Use
Before attempting to rip a CD you must ensure that the
necessary Network Attached Storage (NAS) disk drive is
appropriately configured, connected to the network, and
switched on. Section 7 of this manual describes the use
and configuration of external storage.
To rip a CD, insert the CD into the transport slot. The ripping
process will begin automatically. When CD ripping is
complete HDX-SSD will eject the CD automatically. See
Section 6 for further information on ripping CDs.
Only CDs owned personally should be ripped. Ripping a
borrowed CD may violate copyright law.
Note: Although the HDX-SSD contains a small internal music
database, to be able to identify a CD and download its
associated data during the ripping process, it must be
connected to a working internet connection.
2.7 Software Upgrade
Software upgrade CDs will occasionally be released for the
HDX-SSD. New software is installed simply by inserting the
upgrade CD in the drawer. The software upgrade process
will commence automatically. As part of the upgrade
process the HDX-SSD will eject the CD and re-boot. The
front panel display may also go blank temporarily. The
upgrade process is complete once the display returns to
the Home Menu.
Note: Any specific instructions included with the upgrade
CD should be followed carefully.
Never switch off the HDX-SSD from the rear panel power
switch or unplug it from the mains supply while a software
upgrade process is underway.
2.8 Switching Off
Switching off the HDX-SSD from its rear panel power switch
is not normally necessary unless it is to be un-installed. It
can be put into shutdown mode by pressing the handset
shutdown key or pressing and holding the front panel
shutdown button for one second. The HDX-SSD may take
up to one minute to enter shutdown mode during which
time the shutdown button will flash. The shutdown button
will remain lit when the HDX-SSD is in shutdown mode. Wait
until the shutdown button stops flashing and remains lit
before switching off the HDX-SSD from the rear panel mains
switch.
Never switch off the HDX-SSD from the rear panel mains
switch or unplug it from the mains supply unless it is in
shutdown mode.
To switch the HDX-SSD back on from shutdown mode, the
power switch must be switched off and on again.
2.9 Data Backup
We strongly advise that you protect your stored music by
implementing a regular backup to a second NAS hard disk
drive.
Backups should only be performed over the network and
we recommend that weekly, automated time-stamped,
differential backups are carried out.

5
Installation - Getting Started
The majority of commercially available NAS drives
incorporate setup menus, accessed via a web browser,
that enable regular automated backup of a specified
target drive to be configured.
The automated backup setup procedure for the majority
of NAS drives will be similar to the one described in the
following steps.
•Ensure that the backup NAS drive and HDX-SSD
Music Store NAS drive are on the same network
and switched on. Read the backup NAS drive
user instructions and make sure you understand its
operation.
•From a computer connected to the network open
a web browser application and browse to the NAS
backup drive setup menus. The network “name” or
“address” of the NAS drive will be provided in its user
documentation or on a label affixed to its case.
•From the NAS drive setup menus, create a new
shared folder on the NAS drive called “UServe-SSD
NAS Backup”.
•Again from the NAS drive setup menus, create a new
“backup job”. Select a remote, time-stamp backup
and type the HDX-SSD NAS drive network “name” or
“address” (“192.168.0.5” for example) in the “host”
text field. In the “path” field type “Music”. If login and
password fields are provided leave them blank.
•If a connection test facility is provided within the
setup menus, use it and wait for a positive result.
•From the NAS drive setup menus, select the desired
backup format and schedule. We recommend
selecting a weekly, time-stamped, differential
backup. The initial backup may take a considerable
time to complete.
Note: The backup process may reduce HDX-SSD response
speed while it is underway. It is best to schedule backups
to run at times when the HDX-SSD is unlikely to be in use.
Note: A differential backup only records changes that
have occurred since the last backup.
Note: As well as using a NAS drive for backup it is also
possible to use an automatic backup application running
on a network connected computer. This option however
requires that the computer is left running permanently to
ensure that scheduled backups are not missed.

6
Installation - Getting Connected
3 Getting Connected
The HDX-SSD carries a variety of connection sockets on its rear panel. These are illustrated
and described in the following diagrams and paragraphs. The numeric legends on the
rear panel diagram refer to the numbered paragraphs in Section 3.2.
3.2 HDX-SSD Connections
3.2.1 Keyboard Socket
Optionally connect a PS2 format keyboard here to control
the HDX-SSD in combination with an external display.
3.2.2 Mouse Socket
Optionally connect a PS2 format mouse here to control the
HDX-SSD in combination with an external display.
3.2.3 VGA Interface
Optionally connect a VGA format screen here to display
the HDX-SSD External Display Interface.
3.2.4 Serial Interface
For use if the HDX-SSD is to be integrated into an RS232
controlled environment.
3.2.5 USB Interface Sockets
USB control or audio source devices may be connected
here. USB source devices can be made available across a
network.
3.2.6 Network Socket
Connect to your network router here. The HDX-SSD requires
a working internet connection.
3.2.7 S-video and Composite Video Sockets
Connect an S-video or composite video screen (television)
here for display of the HDX-SSD External Display Interface.
3.2.8 IR Input Socket
Optionally connect an RC5 control signal here for local
control of the HDX-SSD from an IR control repeater.
3.2.9 Coax and Optical Digital Audio Outputs
S/PDIF digital audio for connection to an audio system
digital input. These TosLink and BNC outputs duplicate the
analogue outputs.
3.2.10 Power Supply Upgrade
Enables the connection of an upgrade XPS or 555PS power
supply. The link plug fitted must be removed. See Diagram 3.3.
THE SXPS BURNDY CABLE ONLY MUST BE USED TO CONNECT
THE XPS OR 555PS POWER SUPPLIES.
Note: Both the HDX-SSD and upgrade power supply must
be switched off when the link plug is removed and cable
connections are made.
3.2.11 Output Selector
Selects output 1 (DIN), output 2 (phono) or both.
3.2.12 DIN Analogue Output (output 1)
Analogue output from the HDX-SSD for connection to a
local audio system. Use this option if connecting to a Naim
system.
3.2.13 Phono Analogue Output (output 2)
Analogue output from the HDX-SSD for connection to a
local audio system. Use the DIN option in preference to the
Phono option if connecting to a Naim system.
3.2.14 Signal Ground
Optionally disconnects and “floats” the analogue signal
ground from the chassis earth. Select chassis unless the
HDX-SSD is installed in a hi-fi system incorporating another
mains earthed source component or mains “hum” is
audible from the loudspeakers.
3.1 HDX-SSD Rear Panel
mains input
and fuse
power
switch mouse
socket 3.2.4
3.2.1
keyboard
socket
3.2.3 VGA
display
interface
serial
interface
3.2.2 network
socket
3.2.6
USB
interface
sockets
3.2.5
S-videoand
compositevideo
sockets 3.2.7
remoteinput
socket
3.2.8
coaxand
opticaldigital
audio outputs
3.2.9
3.2.10
signal ground
3.2.11
phonoanalogue
audio output
(output 2)
3.2.13
powersupply
upgrade socket
(link plug tted)
DIN
analogue
audio
output
(output 1)
output selection
3.2.14
3.2.12

7
Installation - Getting Connected
3.3 HDX-SSD and XPS Power Supply
mainsinput
and fuse
SXPSBurndy
Cable
mains input
and fuse
power
switch
Cable
direction
marker
THE HDX-SSD REQUIRES MAINS POWER AT ALL TIMES - WITH
OR WITHOUT AN EXTERNAL POWER SUPPLY.
THE SXPS BURNDY CABLE ONLY MUST BE USED TO CONNECT
THE XPS OR 555PS POWER SUPPLIES.

8
Operation - The Front Panel Display Interface
4 The Front Panel Display Interface
As introduced in Section 1.1, the HDX-SSD can be controlled via a number of different
interfaces. This section covers the Front Panel Display Interface.
The Front Panel Display Interface is a graphical touch screen interface based on
navigation around pages and selection of icons. The emphasis in this section is on the use
of the interface via the touch screen although the supplied remote handset can also be
used. The handset can also be used to operate Naim preamplifiers, integrated amplifiers
and CD players.
The following paragraphs and illustrations describe how the Front Panel Display Interface is
used to access some of the most frequently used HDX-SSD functions. Other functions can
be accessed by following the same principles of interface navigation and selection. A
navigation diagram showing the top levels of the interface can be found in Section 8. The
remote handset is illustrated and its functions described in Section 4.10.
4.1 The Home Menu
The Home menu, illustrated below as it appears on the
HDX-SSD front panel touch screen, is the menu from which
all other interface menus can be accessed. Touch an
option to select it. Touch the back ( ) button to return to
the previous menu.
The icons stacked vertically on the right hand side of the
menu provide shortcuts to the home ( ), browse ( ) and
find ( ) menus, and the back ( ) button. These icons
remain present in all menus and screens.
Selecting each of the options on the Home menu provides
the following pages and functions.
Now Playing: Displays the track currently playing, its
associated information and any associated artwork.
Touching the Now Playing screen will also open a
temporary, floating transport control window containing
play/pause ( / ), step backwards ( ), step forwards ( ),
shuffle ( ) and repeat buttons ( ).
Note: If no track is playing the Now Playing information will
be blank.
Browse Music: Provides access to the library of music
stored on the HDX-SSD and on any network or USB
connected storage media. See Section 4.2.
Find Music: Provides access to search functions that
enable material stored on the HDX-SSD and on any
network or USB connected storage media to be located.
See Section 4.3.
Ripping Monitor: Displays progress during ripping. See
Section 4.4.
Current Playlist: Displays details of the tracks in the current
playlist with options to clear the playlist, remove tracks, or
save the playlist with a new name. If no user playlist has
been selected, the tracks of the currently playing album
will be displayed along with options to “remove” tracks
and to save an edited version of the album as a playlist.
See Section 4.5.
Playlists: Displays a screen showing all the saved playlists
together with options to play, edit and delete. See Section
4.6.
Quick Play: Selects a menu offering quick playback
options. See Section 4.7.
System Setup: Provides access to HDX-SSD system setup
functions and status information. See Section 4.8.

9
4.2 The Browse Music Menu
Selecting Browse Music from the Home menu will open the
browse menu, illustrated below, and provide access to the
library of tracks available to the HDX-SSD on any storage
device.
Albums: Displays an alphabetical list of material sorted by
album. The menu also provides options of Play, Add to.. (a
playlist), Tracks, Info and View.
Artists: Displays an alphabetical list of material sorted by
artist. The menu also provides options of Play, Add to.. (a
playlist), and Info.
Note: The icon to the left of the album name indicates the
file location - USB ( ) or network ( ).
Genres: Displays an alphabetical list of the genres assigned
to albums. The menu also provides options to Play, Add to..
(a playlist), and Albums (within each genre).
Composers: Displays an alphabetical list of material sorted
by composer. The menu also provides options to Play, Add
to.. (a playlist), and Albums (by each composer).
Conductors: Displays an alphabetical list of material sorted
by conductor. The menu also provides options to Play, Add
to.. (a playlist), and Albums (by each conductor).
Performers: Displays an alphabetical list of material sorted
by performer. The menu also provides options to Play, Add
to.. (a playlist), and Albums (featuring each performer).
Music Location: Opens a menu, illustrated below, showing
the music storage locations available to the HDX-SSD.
Selecting one of the locations restricts browsing (or
searching) to that location.
Note: If no external storage (USB or network) is connected
this screen will not display. The interface will remain at the
CD Collection browse menu.
All Music - music stored on all connected storage
hardware.
CD Collection - music stored on network shared locations
converted to the status of Music Stores. See Sections 4.8.3,
4.8.4 and 7 for more on Network Shares and Music Stores.
USB Music - music stored on locally connected USB devices
(a memory stick for example).
Network Music - music stored on network connected
hardware (a network hard disk or a shared folder on a
computer).
Note: Network storage converted to Music Store status will
not be included in the Network Music menu.
Selecting play from any of the Browse menus will clear
the current playlist, play the selected item then display
the Now Playing screen, illustrated below, showing the
track playing, the artist, the album title and any available
artwork. Touching the screen will then open a temporary
floating transport control window containing play/pause
( / ), step backwards ( ), step forwards ( ), shuffle ( )
and repeat buttons ( ).
Note: Selecting the handset Home key twice at any time
will open the Now Playing screen.
Operation - The Front Panel Display Interface

10
Operation - The Front Panel Display Interface
4.3 The Find Music Menu
Selecting Find Music from the Home menu will open
a menu, illustrated below, providing access to search
functions that enable music held either locally, or on any
available network or USB device, to be found.
Tracks: Displays a menu, illustrated below, that enables an
alpha-numeric search of tracks. Enter text to type a track
name. Use the Search key to initiate the search.
Note: The handset numeric keys may also be used to enter
text in a similar manner to mobile phone SMS text entry.
Albums: Displays a screen that enables an alpha-numeric
search of albums. Type an album name and use the
Search key to initiate the search.
Artists: Displays a screen that enables an alpha-numeric
search of artists. Type an artist name and use the Search
key to initiate the search.
People: Displays a screen that enables an alpha-numeric
search of people (performers, conductors etc.). Type a
name and use the Search key to initiate the search.
Most Played: Displays a list of most played albums together
with Play, Add (add the selected Album to a playlist),
Tracks and Info buttons.
Last Played: Displays a list of last played albums together
with Play, Add, Tracks and Info buttons.
Newest: Displays a list of newest (most recently ripped)
albums together with Play, Add, Tracks and Info buttons.
4.4 The Ripping Monitor Screen
Selecting Ripping Monitor from the Home menu will open a
page, illustrated below, that displays the HDX-SSD’s ripping
activity. Ripping can be stopped by selecting the abort
function or pressing the HDX-SSD front panel open button
or handset open key.
4.5 The Current Playlist Screen
Selecting Current Playlist from the Home menu will open a
page, illustrated below, that displays all the tracks in the
current playlist. The tracks are displayed in the order in
which they were added to the playlist. If a whole album
was added, the tracks will play in the same order as they
appear on the album. If the tracks of an album were
added individually, or by creating a random playlist, they
will appear in the order they were added regardless of the
track order on the album they originally came from. The
currently playing track is indicated by a symbol.
Note: Selecting the handset Home key twice at any time
will open the Now Playing screen.

11
Operation - The Front Panel Display Interface
Select New Playlist followed by the OK button. A screen,
illustrated below, will open that enables the new playlist to
be named.
Name the new playlist by selecting text in a similar manner
to mobile phone SMS text entry and touch the Save button.
Selecting save returns the interface to the previous page.
Selecting an additional item followed by Add opens the
playlist selection window again where the newly saved
playlist can be selected and addition of the item confirmed.
4.6.2 Selecting and Managing Playlists
Selecting Playlists from the Home menu displays a list of
previously saved playlists together with options to Play,
Add too... (add the selected playlist to the current playlist,
an existing playlist or a new playlist), Tracks (tracks that
make up the selected playlist), Edit (change track order or
remove tracks) and Delete (the entire playlist).
4.6 Playlists
A playlist is a list of tracks collected together and saved with
a specific name; “favourites” perhaps, or “party tracks”.
Playlists are created by locating the desired items then
adding them to either a new or existing playlist. An item
may be a single track, a whole album, an entire genre or
any group of items generated from a search.
4.6.1 Creating, Naming and Saving Playlists
The procedure described below covers the creation of
a new playlist by selecting items from the Browse menu.
Items can however be added and playlists created or
augmented from any menu that includes an Add to...
button.
Selecting Albums, Artists, or Genres from the Browse menu
displays a menu, illustrated below, that lists all the available
items in the selected category.
To create a playlist, select the first desired item (H2C is
selected in the illustration) followed by the Add to... button.
Selecting the Add to... button will open the playlist selection
window illustrated below.

12
Operation - The Front Panel Display Interface
4.8 The System Setup Menu
Selecting System Setup from the Home menu will open
the System Setup menu, illustrated below, to provide
configuration of various setup and house-keeping
functions.
4.8.1 Rip or Play Mode
Selecting Rip or Play Mode displays a menu that provides the
option for the HDX-SSD to play a CD rather than ripping it.
To play a CD in Play Mode, open the HDX-SSD drawer and
insert the CD. The CD will begin playback automatically.
The Current Playlist menu will list the tracks on the CD as if
it were a playlist. Use either the handset transport keys or
those in the Now Playing screen to play ( ), pause ( ),
stop ( ), step forward ( ) or step backwards ( ).
4.7 The Quick Play Menu
Selecting Quick Play from the Home menu will open
a menu, illustrated below, that provides access to five
playback shortcut pages.
Play Popular: Plays randomly from an automatically
generated playlist of the most often played tracks.
Play Recent: Plays randomly from an automatically
generated playlist of the most recently played tracks.
Play Newest: Plays randomly from an automatically
generated playlist of the most recently ripped tracks.
Play Random: Plays tracks randomly selected from all those
available to the HDX-SSD.
Random Playlist: Displays sequential menus from which
genres, artists and albums can be selected. A random
playlist will then be chosen from within those selections.
4.8.2 USB devices
Selecting USB Devices displays a list of connected or
previously connected USB storage devices and their
connection status. Docked devices can be un-docked,
and un-docked devices can be removed from the list.
4.8.3 Network Shares
Music files stored on network connected hardware (a
network hard disk or a shared folder on a computer) is
known as a Network Share.
Selecting Network Shares opens the Network Shares menu
and provides options to Manage Shares, Refresh All Shares
and Add New Share.
Manage Shares: Displays a list of connected or previously
connected network storage devices and their connection
status. Red, orange and green indicators describe the
status of each network share: Red indicates unavailable,
orange indicates scanning and green indicates available.
Network shares can be enabled, disabled or removed from
the list. Their Status can be displayed and their Password
Settings can be modified.
Note: Network Shares are only enabled automatically if
their name contains the words “music”, “MP3” or “Content”.
Network shares may be stand-alone network attached
storage (NAS) drives or shared folders on a computer
attached to the network. The HDX-SSD will automatically
identify network shares and, if they are enabled, allow the
audio files they hold to be browsed and played.
Refresh All Shares: Refreshes the status of all network
shares. If a large number of network shares is present, this
may take some time.
Add New Share: Enables the manual addition of a network
share. Normally the HDX-SSD will automatically identify
network shares but if a share fails to appear in the Manage
Shares list the Add New Share routine may be used.
Note: Audio files stored on network shares and protected
by Digital Rights Management (DRM) that restricts
playback to specific hardware may not be available to
play via the HDX-SSD.
Note: Network shares can be converted to become “Music
Stores” where ripped CD data is stored. A Network Share

13
nominated as a Music Store will no longer appear in the
network shares list but will appear in the Music Stores list.
Any audio files it already contains generated by a process
other than NaimNet Server or HDX-SSD ripping will not be
available to the HDX-SSD. See the following paragraphs for
more on Music Stores.
4.8.4 Music Stores
Music Stores are the locations where ripped CD data is
stored and can include multiple nominated Network Share
locations. Selecting Music Stores opens the Music Stores
menu to provide options to Manage Stores and Add New
Store.
Manage Stores: Displays a list of connected or previously
connected music stores and their connection status. Red,
orange and green indicators describe the status of each
music store: Red indicates unavailable, orange indicates
scanning and green indicates available.
Music Stores can be raised or lowered in priority or
removed from the list through Down, Up and Remove
buttons. Their Status can be displayed and their Password
and Lock Settings can be modified.
Newly ripped CD data will be stored on the Music Store
at position 1 in the list. If that store is full or unavailable,
the data will be stored on the next available store with
sufficient free space.
Note: Files should never be added to or deleted from
Music Stores via an alternative computer operating system.
Add New Store: Initiates a routine that enables the
creation, naming and password protection of new Music
Stores. Music Stores can only be created from existing
empty Network Shares.
Note: Individual Music Stores may be locked to prevent
ripped data being stored. If the primary Music Store is
locked, the next in line will automatically be used to store
newly ripped data.
Operation - The Front Panel Display Interface
4.8.5 System Settings
Selecting System Settings from the System Setup Menu
provides access to HDX-SSD system settings and functions.
To change a parameter either select it and touch the
change button, or double-touch the parameter. Once the
system settings have been configured they can be saved
by touching the save button.
Language: The HDX-SSD Front Panel Display, External
Display and Web interfaces can operate in a variety of
languages. Selecting Language enables the interface
language to be changed.
Display Settings: Provides access to a number of
parameters that configure the HDX-SSD front panel display
and its interface with any external display screen.
NaimNet Switch: Select to enable access to a NaimNet
systemifoneisconnectedtotheHDX-SSD.ANaimNet
button will then be present on the right hand side of
the interface display if a NaimNet system is available.
Screensaver: Select to engage the front panel and
external display screensaver and specify its switch on
delay.
Front Display Backlight: Sets time before the front
display backlight automatically switches off.
External Display Theme: Enables the appearance of
any external display to be changed. Black and Silver
options are available.
External Display Aspect: Selects the video aspect ratio
for the External Display Interface.

14
Operation - The Front Panel Display Interface
External Display Mode: Selects the interface mode for
the External Display (either Touchscreen or Remote).
In Touchscreen mode the interface displays shortcut
buttons that correspond to the home, browse, find and
back keys on the handset.
TV System: Selects PAL or NTSC TV video modes for the
external display.
Scroll Drag Mode: Enables selection of Page and Initial
letter modes for the display scroll function. With Initial
Letter selected, screen scrolling is indicated by initial
letters displayed at the top of the screen. With Page
selected, screen scrolling is indicated by page numbers
displayed at the top of the screen.
Screen Lock: Enables the HDX-SSD display settings
menu to be locked and password protected.
Calibrate Screen: Enables calibration of the front panel
touch screen or any USB connected external touch
screens. Touch Calibrate Screen and follow the on-screen
instructions.
Note: The HDX-SSD front panel touch screen is calibrated
before shipping and should only be re-calibrated if
operational inconsistency is suspected.
Date and Time: Enables the HDX-SSD internal clock and
calendar to be set.
Clean Display: Disables the HDX-SSD touch screen for 30
seconds so that it can be cleaned.
4.8.6 Manage Music
Selecting Manage Music opens the Manage Music menu
to provide options to Edit Genres, Assign Genres, Rename
Music, Delete Music, Move Music, and to view the Recycle
Bin.
Edit Genres: Enables the music genres listed by the HDX-
SSD to be deleted, added to or renamed.
Assign Genres: Initiates a routine enabling music to be
assigned to genres. Music can be listed by Album, by
Artists or by Recently Ripped, individually or collectively
selected, and a genre assigned. Existing genre assignments
can also be listed and changed, by selecting View
Genres.
Rename Music: Enables Albums, Artists and Tracks to be
renamed. Selecting Albums displays a list of items and
provides options to rename the selected album, its tracks
or its artist. Selecting Artists displays albums listed by artist.
Delete Music: Enables Albums to deleted. Selecting
Albums displays a list of items and provides the option
to delete the selected album. Selecting Artists displays
albums listed by artist.
Note: Deleting items moves them to the Recycle Bin from
where they can be permanently deleted or restored.
Move Music: Provides access to a routine that enables
music files to be moved between Music Stores. Select
Move Monitor to display ongoing file movements and
select Move History to display previous file movements.
Note: Moving a large number of files can take a
considerable time.
Note: Music files should never be added to or deleted from
Music Stores via an alternative computer operating system.
Recycle Bin: Displays a list of deleted items and enables
either their restoration or permanent erasure.
4.8.7 UPnP™ Settings
The HDX-SSD operates as a UPnP™ music server providing
music files to any network attached UPnP™ compatible
playback device. Selecting UPnP™ Settings from the
System Setup menu opens the UPnP™ Settings Menu to
enable the HDX-SSD UPnP™ settings to be configured
appropriately.
Server Name: Select Server Name to specify the name
of the HDX-SSD UPnP™ server that will be seen by UPnP™
playback devices. The name can be changed by
selecting the name field to open a text entry screen.
Connected UPnP™ playback devices will have to be
restarted if the HDX-SSD name is changed.
Device Views: Select Device Views to specify how the
UPnP™ playback device views and browses the music files
available to HDX-SSD. Select All Music to view and browse
all the files available to HDX-SSD. Select CD Collection
to view and browse just the ripped CDs held by HDX-SSD
Music Stores. Select Browse by Device to view and browse
the files held individually on each device connected to
HDX-SSD.

15
Operation - The Front Panel Display Interface
Note: Deselecting all Device View options will make all
music unavailable for UPnP™ playback.
Music Views: Select Music Views to specify the information
displayed by the UPnP™ playback device for each music
file available from the HDX-SSD. Albums, Artists, Playlists,
Genres, Tracks, Composers, Conductors, Performers, and
Newest CDs can be collectively or individually selected.
A-Z Index Options: Selecting A-Z Index Options enables
music collections to be divided alphabetically into
segments when displayed by the UPnP™ playback device.
First select Show Index to switch on segmented display
and then select the preferred alphabetic segment option.
The number in the right hand column corresponds to the
number of items in the music collection above which the
selected alphabetic segmentation is implemented. The
number can be adjusted for each segmentation option.
Language: Select Language to specify the interface
language that the UPnP™ playback device will display
when accessing the HDX-SSD.
Compatibility: Select Compatibility to specify the audio
data Stream Format that the HDX-SSD will stream to
the UPnP™ playback device and to switch CD artwork
transmission to the playback device on or off.
The Stream Format options available are Native, CD
44.1kHz/16 bit and Convert to WAV:
Native: Streams audio files in the same format as they are
stored.
CD 44.1kHz/16 bit: Converts streamed files to CD format.
Convert to WAV: Converts files to WAV format while
retaining their native sample rate and bit depth.
Note: Native stream format offers the highest potential
audio quality followed by Convert to WAV and finally CD
44.1kHz/16 bit. The appropriate choice will depend on the
capability of the playback hardware. Select Native initially
and check that the playback hardware operates correctly
with all stored file formats. If it fails to operate at any time
select Convert to WAV. If it still fails occasionally select CD
44.1kHz/16 bit.
Reset to Defaults: Select Reset to Defaults to return the
HDX-SSD UPnP™ settings to their defaults.
4.8.8 System Status
Selecting System Status displays a list of current system
status and setup parameters.

16
Operation - The Front Panel Display Interface
4.9 Handset Functions
Navigating around and selecting options
in the Front Panel Display Interface can
be done with seven primary handset keys:
Navigation (3456), ok, back and home.
These keys are highlighted in the diagram
annotations.
Shutdown: Switches to shutdown.
Ensure the handset is in the
appropriate mode (hdd for
HDX-SSD).
Mode: Switches handset mode
to preamplifier/integrated
amplifier (pre), CD player (cd),
or hard disk player (hdd).
Numeric: Enable numeric or text entry
for track selection or search.
Delete (del): Enables deletion of the last
numeric or text entry.
Shift ( ): Shifts text entry to upper case.
Output (out): Selects local outputs on
appropriately equipped
products (not HDX-SSD).
Volume: Volume up (5)and down
(6)for preamplifier or AV
processor. These keys function
regardless of the handset
mode.
Mute: Mutes the preamplifier or AV
processor audio output. These
keys function regardless of the
the handset mode.
Info ( ): Displays information about the
currently selected item.
Page: Selects the next (6)or
previous (5)interface menu
page.
Navigation: Navigates around and selects
(3456) menu icons.
ok: Confirms icon selection.
Back: Steps back one interface page.
Home: Selects the Home menu.
Browse: Selects the Browse menu.
System: Selects the System Setup menu.
Find: Selects the Find menu.
Album: Selects the Album browse menu.
Artist: Selects the Artist browse menu.
Genre: Selects the Genre browse menu.
Playlist: Selects the Playlist menu.
Previous ( ): Returns to the start of a track.
Next ( ): Advances to the next track.
Stop ( ): Stops play.
Play ( ): Begins play.
Rewind ( ): Fast reverse.
Forward ( ): Fast forward.
Repeat ( ): Repeats the current playlist.
Pause ( ): Pauses play.
Shuffle ( ): Randomises order of play.
Input: Selects audio inputs on
appropriately equipped products
(not HDX-SSD).
Open: Opens the CD drawer.

17
Operation - Playback
5 Playback
The HDX-SSD is able to provide one local output and multiple network streams
simultaneously. The outputs you will employ from your HDX-SSD will depend on the type
of system in which it is used. The following paragraphs describe the various output options
and their context.
5.1 Local Playback
The HDX-SSD is fitted with the following local outputs:
• A single analogue output with switchable DIN and phono
socket options.
• A single S/PDIF digital audio output with coaxial 75Ω BNC
and TosLink optical socket options. The digital audio output
is a duplicate of analogue output.
HDX-SSD audio outputs are intended to be connected to
a hi-fi system or systems located either in the same area as
the HDX-SSD or in nearby areas.
Selection of local playback can be made using the Local
and Network Browser interfaces.
In addition to ripped CD data, DRM-free MP3, AAC, WMA,
FLAC, WAV, Apple Lossless, Ogg and AIFF audio files held
on external network storage hardware can be played
locally.
Note: Memory sticks connected via USB must be in FAT,
FAT32, or NTFS format. Apple Macintosh formats are not
compatible.
Note: Other playback file formats may be added as
firmware updates in the future. Contact your Naim retailer
or distributor for more information.
5.2 NaimNet Network Playback
The HDX-SSD is compatible with all NaimNet/StreamNet
enabled devices. In addition to providing network-based
remote control, NaimNet enables six unique streams of
audio files to be delivered from the HDX-SSD for playback
through NaimNet enabled output hardware.
The user interface presented by NaimNet/StreamNet
hardware will provide most of the functionality available
through local HDX-SSD control.
5.3 UPnP™ Network Playback
The HDX-SSD can operate as a UPnP™ server and
provide audio files to any UPnP™ compatible playback
hardware connected on the same network. The number
of simultaneous UPnP™ streams available will depend
primarily on the capabilities of the network hardware.
The user interface presented will be defined by the
UPnP™ playback hardware, however the HDX-SSD can
be configured to present music file information to UPnP™
hardware as preferred. See Section 4.8.7.

18
Operation - Ripping
6.1 The Ripping Process
Ripping CDs is a simple process. It is preferable, while
ripping, for HDX-SSD to be connected to a working and
reliable internet service.
Note: An internet connection is necessary for the HDX-SSD
to identify CDs and download their artist, title, track listing
and artwork data. If the HDX-SSD is unable to access the
internet while ripping, it will initially interrogate a small
internal database for the CD’s associated data. If the CD is
not found on the internal database, only the ripped audio
data and its identification code will be stored. Manual
input of CD data or further AMG and FreeDB database
requests can be made via the Desktop Client application
once an internet connection is re-established.
Note: Right-click on the album name in the Desktop Client
interface to request an online database lookup manually.
To rip a CD press the front panel or handset open button
and place the CD on the drawer. Press the open button
again to close the drawer. Ripping will begin automatically
and takes up to eight minutes.
Note: It is good practice to check that the playing surface
of each CD is clean before ripping.
Note: Ripping can be cancelled once underway by
pressing the HDX-SSD front panel open button or selecting
Abort on the Front Panel Display Interface Ripping Monitor
page.
When the HDX-SSD has ripped the CD and downloaded its
associated data it will eject the CD automatically. As soon
as a CD has been ejected, the HDX-SSD is ready to rip the
next one. The Ripping Monitor menu provides feedback on
progress as the ripping process takes place.
The CD will be included in the HDX-SSD’s music library listing
a short while after it has been successfully ripped. It will
then be available for playback either locally or across a
NaimNet network.
6 Ripping
HDX-SSD will only fulfil its potential if it holds a significant library of music. A typical music
CD carries approximately 600MB of data so every 1TB of network storage capacity will
hold approximately 1500 CDs. Ripping a typical CD takes up to eight minutes thanks to
the advanced data handling algorithms that ensure, unless the CD is badly damaged, the
ripped data is always a “bit-perfect” copy.
6.2 Copyright Issues
The music carried on a CD, and the recording of the CD
itself, is likely to be the subject of copyright restrictions
which allow the owner of the CD only to make copies
(ripping in effect copies a CD) for personal use only.
Ripping CDs that you don’t personally own may violate
copyright law.
Note: CD copyright law may vary with territory.